Teenagers from multiple countries embark on study tour in Suzhou

On the morning of July 14, the Chinese Language and Jiangnan Cultural Heritage Summer Camp officially opened at Soochow University. The summer camp has attracted about 40 teenagers from countries including Russia, Laos, Indonesia, and Vietnam. They have embarked on an exchange and study tour lasting two to four weeks, where they will immerse themselves in the charm of Jiangnan culture while studying the Chinese language.

During the summer camp, the teenagers will attend systematic Chinese language courses at Soochow University to further enhance their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. They will also engage in hands-on experiences with intangible cultural heritage, including Kunqu Opera, paper-cutting, tea art, and Chinese martial arts, to gain deeper insights into traditional Chinese culture. Additionally, they will visit Suzhou Industrial Park to witness Suzhou's vibrant innovation-driven development by Jinji Lake and to learn about Suzhou's achievements in economic and social progress.

Photo/ Soochow University

As a highlight of the first day, the teenagers first toured the Tiancizhuang Campus of Soochow University. There, they explored the century-old university's rich history and profound humanistic roots, experiencing a campus culture where tradition meets modernity.

Following the campus visit, the group boarded a canal water bus for a unique City Boat trip. Cruising slowly along the ancient Grand Canal, the teenagers admired the blend of historical and modern urban landscapes on both banks. Gliding through the rippling waters, they soaked in Suzhou's distinctive Jiangnan ambiance and experienced firsthand how this historic cultural city harmoniously integrates with its modern urban identity.

Janice from Indonesia said, "This is my first time taking a boat trip. It's been such a wonderful ride because I get to see the beautiful scenery in the city. And there are a lot of people riding the boat here with me. I was able to talk with them and get to know them. I think it's going to be a wonderful trip in my memory."

Inside the Suzhou Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, the teenagers gained a systematic overview of Suzhou's transformation from an ancient millennium-old city to a modern international metropolis through scale models, videos, and digital exhibits. The visit deepened their understanding of the practical achievements in historic conservation, urban renewal, and industrial development. It also offered them a more comprehensive and vivid picture of Suzhou's cultural lineage and its blueprint for the future.

"Today's tour in Suzhou has given us a vivid picture of the city's rapid development, while also allowing us to appreciate its well-preserved ancient architecture and numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites," said Phutthana from Laos.

According to the itinerary, the teenagers will continue with a structured program combining Chinese language classes in the morning and cultural immersion activities in the afternoon throughout the rest of the summer camp. Through language learning, cultural experiences, and mutual exchanges, they will deepen their understanding of China and Jiangnan culture, further strengthening the bonds of friendship between Chinese and international youth.

Source: iSuzhou